FATHER OF LSD DIES AT 102

Albert Hofmann, the father of the drug LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamine) has died. He was 102.

The Swiss chemist discovered lysergic acid diethylamide-25 in 1938 while studying the medicinal uses of a fungus found on wheat and other grains at the Sandoz pharmaceuticals firm in Basel.
After its discovery, LSD was viewed as a wonder drug with the potential to treat problems including schizophrenia and alcoholism.

For decades after LSD was banned in the late 1960s, Hofmann defended his invention.
"I produced the substance as a medicine. ... It's not my fault if people abused it," he once said.

ASBESTOSIS

Asbestosis is chronic, progressive inflammation of the lung. It is not contagious. Asbestosis is a consequence of prolonged exposure to large quantities of asbestos, a material once widely used in construction, insulation, and manufacturing. When asbestos is inhaled, fibers penetrate the breathing passages and irritate, fill, inflame, and scar lung tissue. In advanced asbestosis,, the lungs shrink, stiffen, and become honeycombed.

The first symptom of asbestosis is usually shortness of breath following exercise or other physical activity. The early stages of the disease are also characterized by a dry cough and a generalized feeling of illness.

Anyone who works with asbestos should wear a protective mask or a hood with a clean-air supply and obey recommended procedures to control asbestos dust. Anyone who is at risk of developing asbestosis should:
---not smoke
---be vaccinated against influenza and pneumonia
---exercise regularly to maintain cardiopulmonary fitness
----avoid crowds and people who have respiratory infections
A person who has asbestosis should exercise regularly, relax, and conserve energy whenever necessary.

PROTECT YOUR SKIN AND EYES FORM UV RAYS

ULTRA VIOLET rays popularly known as UV rays are known to cause damage to skin. Ultra violet radiation consists of invisible rays from the sun which will burn the skin and can damage the eyes.

• Avoid staying outdoors for long hour especially between 10 a.m. and 4 pm. during which period three-quarters of UV exposure occurs in summer.
• Wear a hat as possible a broad-brimmed one.
• Wear a cool sun glass.

BEAT THE HEAT

• Keep out of the heat. If possible, do not go outside during the hottest time of the day.
• Avoid strenuous activity but if you cannot, plan to do the activity during the early morning.
• Try to spend time in the coolest parts of your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed in rooms that catch the sun.
• Remember that lights generate heat. Keep windows open where possible, unless it is cooler inside than out.
• Fans can help sweat evaporate but do not cool the air itself.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
• Splash yourself with cold water at regular intervals and take cool baths or showers.
• Use damp towels or cloths to cool off.
• Drink lots of fluids, even if you are not thirsty.
• Water and fruit juice are best.
• Both alcohol and caffeine can make dehydration worse: avoid them.
• Eat cold food, particularly salads and fruits that are high in water. Heavy meals are best avoided.